Dictionary CrimesPopical Island ****

With two fine albums already under his belt, Ronan Hession is no stranger to critical acclamation. Yet neither Señor, My Friend (2003) nor The Herring and the Brine (2007) revealed as much of the Dublin musician's character as his third record does. These über-personal songs depict topics such as the gravity of serious illness and the anxiety of parenthood with an astonishing, sometimes brutally honest lyrical clarity. Yet Hession still manages to balance heartrending poignancy (Little Mite's portrayal of a miscarriage) with lighthearted self-mockery (On Being Bill Cosby's musings on fatherhood), while his acoustic guitar and soft, distinctive rasp weave simple frames for his succinct life experiences. Another beautiful, intimate album from a hugely underrated songwriter. dictionarycrimes.tumblr.com

Download tracks: Little Mite, On Being Bill Cosby